Japan has launched the world’s first human clinical trials for a drug capable of regrowing teeth. Developed by Toregem Biopharma in collaboration with Kyoto University, the drug works by targeting a protein that suppresses tooth growth, paving the way for natural tooth regeneration.
How It Works
The drug, known as TRG-035, is a monoclonal antibody that neutralizes the USAG-1 protein. Normally, this protein limits tooth development. By suppressing it, the drug can reactivate “tooth buds”—cells that have the potential to develop into full teeth.
In preclinical trials, the drug successfully helped mice and ferrets grow new teeth.
Future Plans
The first phase of the clinical trials, which began in October 2024, involves 30 healthy men aged 30 to 64 who are missing at least one tooth. The primary goal of this stage is to confirm the drug’s safety.
If the trials are successful, the next phase will focus on children between the ages of 2 and 7 who suffer from congenital anodontia (a condition where teeth are missing from birth), offering hope to millions of people worldwide.
The developers plan to bring the drug to market by 2030. If successful, this technology could completely transform dentistry by providing a natural alternative to implants, bridges, and dentures.
Source: UCSF, Toregem Biopharma
